In an unexpected twist that feels like it’s straight out of a governmental thriller, the much-talked-about 10,000-baht handout programme has hit the pause button, not to be axed but to recalibrate its goals. Instead of splashing cash in the third phase, the government, like a diligent chess player, is strategizing on how to use these funds to tackle structural challenges head-on and invest in imperative infrastructure projects. It’s a detour, not a derailment, as Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira clarified following an intense committee meeting focused on economic stimulus measures.
The grand plan was to distribute 27 billion baht in digital wallets to approximately 2.7 million young Thais, those spirited souls aged between 16 and 20. However, akin to an underwhelming movie sequel, the first two phases didn’t quite pack the economic punch that was initially anticipated. This led critics to propose that the treasure chest might better serve the nation elsewhere.
With advice from notable institutions like the National Economic and Social Development Council and the Bank of Thailand ringing in their ears, Mr. Pichai and his team took a fresh perspective on the spending strategy. Their verdict? Redirect the funds towards tackling urgent and pressing challenges, especially those nagging issues that plague small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The focus is now on empowering competitiveness and bolstering employment opportunities.
In a move resembling a scene from a high-stakes drama, a framework received the nod, complete with a specialized panel to screen projects and another all-seeing committee to oversee the expenditure, ensuring that funds are well spent. Mr. Pichai, who also serves as deputy prime minister, assured that these tactics are in response to shifting circumstances, like the unforeseen US trade policy transformations.
The delayed digital wallet programme becomes a subplot in a wider narrative reshaped by changing tides. “Awaiting the right circumstances,” is how Mr. Pichai described the state of affairs when quizzed about whispers suggesting the scheme might ultimately face the axe. Before coming to the table, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra underscored the need to reassess the economic playbook in light of fresh US trade tariffs, heralding a new epoch of economic restructuring intended to enrich the grass-roots economy and SMEs while steering towards sustainable economic prosperity.
Amidst this backdrop, a source within Government House squeaked that the committee meticulously considered economic signals and reports from vigilant agencies before setting the course towards investment, espoused as a more potent engine to revitalize the economy. They took into account the prime minister’s directives and reservations expressed recently, including the ramifications of US tariff hikes, Moody’s credit outlook downgrade for Thailand from stable to negative, and potential declines in revenue collection.
Minister Chousak Sirinil stepped into the limelight to address the potential legal ripples of halting the third phase of the handout. He assured that pausing a government project doesn’t lock horns with legality, echoing the familiar political refrain: “It’s not dead; it’s just snoozing.”
Meanwhile, Digital Economy and Society Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong passed the proverbial microphone to the Ministry of Finance for any clarity regarding the technological readiness for phase three. When probed about the possibility of an outright cancellation, he diplomatically disclosed that there has been no chat over such radical measures.
As the tightrope of government schemes continues, embodying both suspense and strategy, it reminds us that in the world of policy and economy, flexibility and foresight are often the ace cards.
I’m actually relieved they’re shifting focus. Throwing money around isn’t the right answer.
I disagree! Those young folks could use a boost right now. We keep saying they’re the future, but aren’t investing in them directly.
But investing in infrastructure benefits everyone, including them, in the long run.
True, but without immediate relief, some people won’t last long enough to see those benefits.
Wait, was the cash handout even effective in the first two phases?
Apparently not, since they’re pivoting to infrastructure instead.
Redirecting funds sounds sensible, but how will it impact our SMEs in the short term as we grapple with the tariffs?
Hopefully by investing in their infrastructure needs, more jobs and opportunities will be created.
Wishful thinking maybe, but that takes time, and SMEs need support NOW.
The pause is disappointing. Speedy economic support should be more prioritized than long-term investments right now.
But long-term solutions are usually the most sustainable. Quick fixes won’t sustain a broken system.
Interesting, it seems like a classic case of adjusting to political and economic realities.
As long as there’s eventual benefit for youth, I’m on board with any direction.
I wonder if they actually consulted any of the 16-20 year-olds about what they needed…
Good point. Engaging the demographic you’re aiming to help should be step one.
Real solutions require courage to pivot and reassess priorities, well done Minister Pichai.
Or this is just a fancy excuse for not being able to execute the wallet plan effectively.
Good to see that they are keen on building infrastructure. But will the economy manage to survive in the meantime?
To be fair, the economy needs a short and long term balance to prosper.
How convenient… Changing plans when the handouts fail without any real accountability involved.
Government always gets cold feet when the results don’t appear overnight. You need patience.
Patience might be a luxury some of our citizens don’t have at the moment.
That’s true, but a solid foundation could prevent economic whiplash in the future.
I’m just here waiting to see if they actually go through with it or if it’s all talk.
A healthy skepticism, can’t say I blame you!
Hopefully the infrastructure projects will be transparent and benefit the communities directly.
This gives vibes of a plot twist in a political drama series. Grab some popcorn.
Critical thinking and adaptability seem to be our best governmental assets at this moment.